A special air quality statement has been issued for southern Alberta, including Wheatland County and Strathmore.

On August 23, the Alberta Air Quality Health Index for the Calgary region was at 7, which is considered high risk. The maximum for the region is expected to get to 10, or very high risk, before it drops back down to 6, or moderate on Friday.

An alert for southern Alberta was issued by Environment Canada, Alberta Environment and Parks and Alberta Health. A special air quality statement was issued for Strathmore, Siksika Nation, Rocky View County near Chestermere, Wheatland County near Standard, Gleichen, Lyalta and Carseland.

Thick smoke across southern and central Alberta is causing reduced visibility.

People could experience symptoms like increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches, or shortness of breath. Children, seniors and vulnerable people are especially at risk.

Stay inside if you have breathing difficulties and find an indoor place that is cool and ventilated. According to the statement, using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help. Opening windows may let in more polluted air. Consider going to a public place, if your home isn’t air conditioned, like a library, or shopping mall or recreational centre.

More information on air quality values can be found at www.airhealth.ca.